By Olive Tree Acupuncture & Wellbeing, Brackley

Summer is finally here, and whether you’re heading abroad, enjoying a UK staycation, visiting family or simply planning days out, a little preparation can help you feel your best while you’re away.

We all remember the obvious essentials such as passports, chargers and sun cream, but what about the items that support your health, wellbeing and peace of mind?

As a naturopath and acupuncturist, I’ve learnt that it’s often the smallest things that make the biggest difference. Travelling can disrupt sleep, digestion, hydration and routine, leaving us feeling more frazzled than refreshed.

One item you’ll always find in my bag is hand cream. Not only does it soothe dry skin after flights and frequent hand washing, but it gives me the opportunity to massage acupressure points on my hands during a journey. Back at the hotel, it can even double up for a little self-reflexology on tired feet.

I also pack ginger sweets and peppermint teabags for travel sickness or bloating, electrolyte sachets to support hydration in hot weather, and a reusable water bottle because dehydration is one of the quickest ways to trigger headaches, fatigue and brain fog.

An aromatherapy roller ball, favourite perfume in a travel spray and a calming meditation app help me stay grounded when travel plans become stressful.
A lightweight scarf is surprisingly versatile too – useful as a blanket on chilly flights, a wrap on cooler evenings or even a meditation shawl.

The aim isn’t to pack more. It’s to pack smarter. Sometimes the smallest items in your bag can have the biggest impact on how you feel and how you enjoy
your holiday.

Safe travels and have a wonderful summer!

Sarah Stamp
Olive Tree Acupuncture & Wellbeing